Confront the affordable housing crisis, one ADU at a time.
Because our backyards can help solve the problem.
What We Believe In
Backyard Solutions
Tackling an issue this complex can be daunting, but dealing with things from our own backyards makes this less so.
Economic Accessibility
Whether it’s generating supplemental income as an owner or renting an ADU as a low-cost housing solution, finances are key to keep in mind.
Collective Progress
Finding ways to improve our community is at our core. By coming together with members of the community itself—future tenants, problem solvers, investors—we can create positive change.
Our Story
For 21 years (1989-2010), Ted Gilbert served as Chairman of an affordable housing non-profit named HOST (Homeownership One Street at a Time) Development, Inc. HOST’s mission was to help turn around struggling Portland inner-city neighborhoods through creating affordable home ownership opportunities, especially for first-time buyers and people of color. During this time, Ted hired John Miller to serve as HOST’s Executive Director (2002 - 2010).
Ten years later, the need for affordable housing is higher than ever in Portland. Recently John had been hired by a group to explore the idea of utilizing Accessory Dwelling Units (ADU) as a vehicle to create more affordable housing in Portland. The idea of utilizing ADUs, though only one unit at a time, could be far faster and more affordable than the processes of designing, permitting, financing and constructing larger multifamily complexes. Not only would these be located in convenient, desirable neighborhoods, but in neighborhoods many couldn’t otherwise afford. John mentioned this concept to Ted, and BackHome ADU was born. BackHome ADU is backed by the Portland Affordable Housing Preservation Trust, a non-profit organization led by a board of professionals who donate their time to help solve the housing crisis.
The goal was simple: Attract and harness private sector partners (and their resources) to create public sector, community-first solutions in a model that doesn’t require taxpayer funding.
Our Pilot Program
Our program is indeed exactly that: a pilot. With our partners, we are providing capital for 20 ADU loans for homeowners. Our plan is to demonstrate a viable program during the pilot, and then expand our program region wide.